Tea and Coffee Powder
Allowed in both cabin and checked baggage if sealed. Large commercial quantities are subject to customs.
- ≤350g
- 351g–1kgDomestic
- >1kgDeclare
What to do
✅ Do
- •Vacuum-seal loose coffee to prevent aroma leakage.
- •Use tamper-proof tape on homemade spice blends.
- •Carry a list of ingredients in English for customs forms.
🚫 Don't
- •Don’t mix powders with electronics—spillage causes inspection delays.
- •Don’t carry unlabeled metal tins; they look suspicious on scanners.
- •Avoid shipping large commercial quantities in personal luggage; use cargo services instead.
The US TSA enforces a separate-screening rule for powders over 350g (12oz) in cabin baggage — if you're transiting through a US airport, keep tea/coffee powder under that threshold or pack it in checked baggage instead.
Frequently asked questions
Do instant coffee sachets count as powders?+
Can I bring coffee beans?+
What about tea leaves with dried fruits?+
Related guides
Related rules
Power bank in flight
Not allowed in checked baggage.
Laptop in cabin/check-in
Cabin strongly recommended; checked baggage only if fully powered off and padded.
Mobile phone in check-in
Technically allowed but discouraged. Phones must be switched off if checked in.
Camera (DSLR)
Allowed in cabin. Pack heavy tripods or light stands in checked baggage.
Dry cells & spares
Allowed in cabin if individually protected. Not allowed loose in checked baggage.
Smart luggage
Allowed only if the lithium battery is removable. Battery must be in cabin when bag is checked.
Official references
DGCA guidelines — simplified
Verified on: 6 Dec 2025
Disclaimer: Aviation and security rules change frequently. Always confirm with your airline, airport help desk, or CISF officers before you travel.